Railroad songs, mixed with bluegrass, will fill the exhibit area at The Depot railroad museum in Salem Sunday afternoon, Dec. 6, from 1-4 p.m., as the John Hay Center holds its Christmas open house.
During The Depot's open house, Banjoist Jim Smoak and the LA Honeydrippers
will be performing.
Smoak, who lives at Pekin, was born and raised in South Carolina and as a young boy borrowed his grandfather's banjo, taking the first step into a lifelong career in music.
After high school, Smoak headed to Nashville and soon found himself picking banjo for Bill Monroe's Blue Grass Boys, performing regularly at the Grand Ole Opry.
He later served as the only banjo player Little Jimmy Dickens ever employed.
Smoak's music abilities opened the doors to many stage and television appearances.
In 1961, Smoak formed the Louisiana Honeydrippers. For 21 years, he performed at the Old Stable in Bardstown, Kentucky. He also performs in the Louisville and southern Indiana areas.
Visitors to The Depot will be able to tour the museum while listening to a sampling of Smoak's talent as a songwriter and banjoist. All areas of The Depot will be open, including the 1929 Monon caboose.
Also, for those who want to sit and enjoy the show, seating will be available.
Refreshments will be served. and copies of CDs by the group will be for sale.
The Depot, which is part of the John Hay Center, is located at 206 South College Ave., Salem -- just two blocks from the public square.
There is no admission charge during the open house, but The Depot always welcomes
donations.
The Stevens Memorial Museum, the pioneer village and the birthplace of John Hay will be open during the Christmas open house.
School and church groups will also be entertaining in those areas and refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit The Depot's web site, www.salemdepot.com